7: Will Matthew Knies take a step forward or backward in his sophomore season?
Matthew Knies registered 15 goals and 20 assists for 35 points in 80 games last season for a decent rookie campaign. Will he suffer a sophomore slump, or will he surpass expectations?
I think 25 goals and 50 points are fair expectations for Knies this season. He is expected to start on the top line with Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner, so there will be plenty of opportunities to pick up points.
Knies is the Leafs most interesting player, because after the playoffs he looked like he was ready to become a star. If he breaks out, the Leafs will be getting a significant bonus. On the other hand, Robertson and Domi will be trying to take his spot on the top line from the get go.
6: Can the Leafs win the Atlantic Division
Winning the division is not the title every team strives for, but it is an important accomplishment. The Leafs play in one of the toughest divisions within the NHL.
With the Stanley Cup-winning Florida Panthers, Boston Bruins, and Tampa Bay Lightning always competing for the top spot, it wouldn't be an easy thing for the Leafs to accomplish. Will this be the year they do it?
Unfortunately for the Leafs, if they don't win the division their Stanley Cup chances take a massive hit because having to play the second or third-best team in the Atlantic in the opening round makes advancing to the Stanley Cup finals almost impossible.